Follow these students throughout the year as they encounter the highs and lows of freshman year

Throughout high school, University of Idaho freshman Andrea Falk said music was a central part of her identity. She was good at it, and she loved it – but she wanted to explore. She said she considered taking a gap year to work, or pursue something completely different. After receiving a handwritten acceptance letter from her cello instructor, Falk knew UI’s program worked for her.

University of Idaho freshman Luis Lopez decided to attend the University of Idaho despite having multiple options in other states, because the in-state tuition was a better financial option, he said. While having lived in Idaho for the majority of his life, Lopez spent five years living in California as well. His parents came from an indigenous community in southern Mexico, and said he immediately noticed the difference in the communities upon moving to Twin Falls.

University of Idaho freshman Danielle Payne, from Central Point, Oregon, said her first days on campus have been a mix of emotions – both excitement and fatigue. For now, Payne is a nutrition major. But admittedly, she said that could change.